Summary, Psalm 138

Let’s look at how these 3 amazing biblical historical books fit together: Ezra, Esther, and Nehemiah.

It all begins in 538 BC, when Cyrus the Great, king of Persia, allows the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem. Led by Zerubbabel, they rebuild the Temple, completing it in 516 BC. This is the story told in Ezra 1–6.

Then, the timeline pauses. About 60 years later, in 479 BC, a Jewish girl named Esther becomes queen of Persia during the reign of Xerxes I. Her story unfolds between Ezra chapters 6 and 7. In 474 BC, she courageously saved her people from annihilation.

Back in Jerusalem, the next chapter begins. In 458 BC, Ezra, a priest and scribe, returns under King Artaxerxes I. His mission is to restore worship and teach the Law. That’s Ezra 7–10.

Finally, in 445 BC, Nehemiah, the king’s cupbearer, is stirred to rebuild Jerusalem’s broken walls. With bold leadership, prayer, and perseverance, he completes the work in just 52 days. Nehemiah’s story, continuing into 433 BC, isn’t just about walls—it’s about spiritual reform and renewed covenant.

Psalm 138 is a song of thanksgiving written by David. He praises God with his whole heart, acknowledging the power of His Word. “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me.” Amen.